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Everyone has probably experienced a writer’s block at least once. You may not even specifically be a writer to go through this phase. People in other creative fields like artists, painters, designers, and even coders have lacked inspiration or motivation some time or another.
I’ve also faced this when suddenly, at one point, I ran out of ideas on topics to film videos on. Even earlier on, I experienced this with regards to my blog, when I didn’t know what to write my next blog post on.
So here I am to help you out when you feel uninspired with a collection of 12 ways to feel inspired. I’m not promising you that things on this list will inspire you right away. But what I can tell you is these pointers will help you relax a little and get you in the zone to be open to anything around you that could provide you with the creative spark you can’t seem to find.
Because let’s face it, inspiration is found from anything and everything around us and when you’re inspired, you become more productive.
Having said that I also want you to know that you can take days off. Don’t feel guilty for doing so. Everyone goes through phases when they lack creativity but what matters is that you don’t beat yourself down when that happens. Take the time off to do things that you enjoy and you will realise that one fine day out of nowhere a crazy idea will hit you when you least expect it.
So here goes…
Contents
#1 Read
It might seem like a contrary thing to do if you’re a writer and are experiencing writer’s block but reading provides you with different perspectives. You get to learn how other people think, their writing style, their flow of thought.
While reading, you might realise that you would have written this plot differently. So, for all you know, it might be a source of inspiration for your next article or book.
For the others, you might find inspiration in the way the author approached a particular problem. Even if it doesn’t, at the very least, it will provide you with an escape where you don’t have to think about work for some time and just delve into the world of storytelling.
Plus, reading can never be a bad thing. It has always been a good habit to cultivate.
Check out- 10 best development books that will change your life
#2 Take Time Off For Yourself
Taking out time for yourself is as important as giving others your time. People tend to forget to carve time out for themselves amidst their hectic schedules. So, pick a day, kick back and relax. Put on a face mask, pour out some wine, and pamper yourself.
I did this a while back when I put on a face mask, played with my dog, and watched TV with my folks. And again, a couple of days ago, when I had the most amazing experience with bath bombs in my bathtub as well.
Alternatively, you could pick a hobby, something that you’ve always wanted to do but never took up because of time constraints. It could be learning to play an instrument or cooking or even crocheting. You will not only learn a new skill; it will also take your mind off of work.
Few of my favorite masks-
#3 Listen to Music
Music has the power to make you feel different emotions just by listening to different songs. Music also has the ability to change your mood depending on what you’re listening to.
Go back to an old track to trigger long-forgotten happy memories or pick a feel-good/upbeat playlist to get into a groove. Turn up the volume and dance along to add to the vibe.
Or you could pick a new artist or genre to listen to and who knows you might find your next favourite song while doing so or a track to go back to next time.
Enjoy music with good quality earphones-
#4 Exercise
Exercising is therapeutic for some people and if you’re one of them then this is sure to get your heart pumping and energise you. This would get your creative juices flowing.
Physical exercise doesn’t have to be a tedious task that you grudgingly go through, you can try different methods of exercising like maybe Zumba with music on if that’s your jam.
#5 Internet
With the Internet at our fingertips, inspiration can be found in any nook of the world while sitting in the comforts of your home. And I don’t just mean social media; articles, websites, or YouTube videos could be your next source of inspiration.
Subscribe to websites that send you different articles on various topics every day or random inspirational quotes.
#6 Watch Your Competitors
Your competitors’ work could be your source of inspiration. I’m not suggesting that you copy their stuff but you can take inspiration from them. You might think of an idea while scrolling through their feed or their work.
If your competitor’s work is widely appreciated and received well, it could also give you an idea of what your audience might be expecting from you.
#7 Crowdsource
Taking feedback from your audience is such a great method of learning what they like and getting ideas from them. Some of them might even provide you with an idea that you wouldn’t have thought of otherwise. And once ideas pour in, it’s just a matter of executing them.
I’ve asked my audience about what videos they would like to see or what blog post they would like to read next.
#8 Connect with Nature
Step out and take a breather. A short walk to the nearest park and some fresh air will do you good. You could also visit the beach if it is close by and just sit and watch the waves lash at the shore.
You’ll get a much needed peaceful and calming time to relax.
As a bonus, ask some of your friends to come along so you can catch up with them.
#9 Take A Short Trip
Pack a small bag and go for a day trip to a place close by that you haven’t been to. You’d be surprised how many places have the power to inspire people. Make sure it’s a place that you’ve either always wanted to visit or a place that will make you happy.
P.S. Take all the safety precautions if you do decide to do this in the near future and avoid going to crowded places or unnecessary travel.
#10 Tidy Up
Having a neat and clean workspace will help to declutter your mind as well. So clean up and throw away stuff you don’t need when working or don’t use it anymore. Having bits of paper with random phone numbers or a grocery list that is no longer in use information that you’ve written but can’t recall what it means can add to the mess. Pick them all up and throw them away.
#11 Play with your pet
Pets are always a source of happiness and joy. If I didn’t have a business to run and if my dog was with me here in Germany, I’d be playing with him half the time. In case you don’t have a pet, visit a park where people bring their pets, and maybe you can pet a few. If you don’t like dogs or cats or animals in general (what?!) then you can skip this.
#12 Create A Mood Board
A mood board is a visual representation of your mood or on a particular topic. It’s essentially a collage of text, pictures, or any other items that you would want to add to it. Mood boards change depending on…you guessed it…your mood.
Put together your thoughts in any form. Even if they don’t make sense at the moment, they might be the stepping stone to a bigger idea. It’ll help you chalk out ‘why’ you’re doing a particular task or what you feel like doing instead and maybe that could lead to your next idea.
I hope that inspiration hits you soon and don’t forget to let me know in the comments what worked for you or other ways to feel inspired.
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